Trading rules

Victoria's trading rules exist in a number of documents, as listed below. Each document is in a compiled form, including any revisions made to the original of the document.

Declared systems (water share and allocation trade)

Water share trade and allocation trade in Victoria is governed by rules set by the Minister for Water. The trading rules aim to facilitate trade wherever possible, while minimising negative impacts on other users and the environment.

A copy of the consolidated trading rules for declared water systems is available below, along with a map that shows the trading zones and summarises trading capability between zones for Victorian regulated water systems.

Non-declared systems

Trading of take and use licence is managed by the relevant rural water corporations in accordance with the Ministerial Policies for Managing Take and Use Licences. Prior to deciding to approve a permanent or temporary transfer of a take and use licence, the water corporation must have regard to a number of matters including any adverse impacts on other water users.

There are also some local trading rules made by the relevant rural water corporation, as follows:

Coliban Water uses its channel system to supply holders of certain take and use licences. It applies local rules – "Coliban Water: Rural Water Trading Rules" – which can be found at: Coliban Water - Trade restrictions

Goulburn-Murray Water has made some local trading rules for groundwater licences in management plans. These can be found at: GMW groundwater rules.

Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water has also made some trading rules for the water allowances held by its pipeline customers. These are on the application forms which can be found at: GWMWater water allowance trade.

ACCC Guides on Fair Trading

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has released three guides to help irrigators and water brokers and exchanges understand their rights and responsibilities under federal, state and territory trading laws.

The guides include tips on how to select a broker and what to keep in mind when arranging a trade. They are available on the internet at www.accc.gov.au or by contacting the ACCC’s Infocentre on 1300 302 502.